MERIDIAN STATE PARK
Hidden away in the wooded hills northwest of Waco lies Meridian State Park, a haven for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts. The park's 72-acre lake offers fishing in addition to swimming, and no-wake boating. A hiking trail encircling Lake Meridian features limestone outcroppings with fossils, a scenic overlook and aquatic vegetation. Birdwatching is excellent and there is a good chance of seeing the rare Golden-cheeked Warbler.
This park is very wooded with predominantly Ashe juniper and oak, as well as abundant plants and wildflowers. A variety of wildlife and birds includes the endangered Golden-cheeked warbler in the spring. The lake is very popular for bream, crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass.
Meridian State Park, near Meridian in Bosque County, is a 505.4-acre park. A rock and earthen dam was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) on Bee Creek to form the park's 72-acre lake. The land was acquired from private owners in 1933 - 1935 and was opened to the public in 1935.
Tonkawa Indians lived in the surrounding area before the coming of white man; Tawakoni Indians also occupied the area prior to 1841. The Texas-Santa Fe expedition of 1841 passed through Bosque County near the present site of park in Bosque Valley.
Enjoy fishing in a tranquil lake, home to crappie, catfish and largemouth bass. A valid license is required for adults.
1. Meridian State Park offers numerous picnic spots with tables and grills.
2. Picnic near the lake for a scenic view while eating.
3. Shaded areas provide cool picnicking options during hot days.
4. Reserve group pavilions for larger gatherings or family reunions.
5. Enjoy birdwatching from your picnic spot, as park is home to diverse species of birds.
Birdwatchers can spot species like the Golden-cheeked Warbler, Black-capped Vireo and Painted Bunting. The park is a designated Important Bird Area.
The Bee Creek Unit offers birding trails where you may see Eastern Bluebirds or Red-tailed Hawks.
A variety of waterfowl including Mallards and Great Egrets are often seen around Lake Meridian's shores.
In winter months, visitors might catch sight of Bald Eagles soaring above the lake area.
Spring migration brings warblers such as Yellow-rumped and Pine Warblers to this location in Texas.
Guides for identifying local birds are available at the Park Headquarters.
Nearby attractions include Dinosaur Valley State Park, Lake Whitney State Park, and Cleburne State Park; Fossil Rim; Six Flags Over Texas; Texas and Arlington Stadiums; State Fair; and Texas Ranger Museum.
Take State Highway 174 from Cleburne, State Highway 144 from Glen Rose or State Highway 6 from Waco. Join State Highway 22 and proceed to the park. Take State Highway 22 from Hillsboro or Hamilton. The park is located about 3 miles southwest of Meridian off State Highway 22.
We stayed at the park last year and was impressed with the condition of the park. The park was clean and a very beautiful place to relax and enjoy the scenery. My family and I plan to return in 2011.
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